ILLUSTRATION PROCESS

A-Z of Convicts in Van Diemen’s Land

The illustrations were based on authentic 19th century source material whenever possible. Original artifacts such as leg irons, cat o nine tails, cooking equipment and wearing apparel were photographed in private and public collections for drawing reference. In some instances, items such as clothing were reproduced from originals for modeling purposes. Written descriptions were also incorporated, including records detailing each convict’s height, age, visage, complexion, hair and eye colour along with the shape of their nose, mouth, forehead and chin. Other notable attributes include scars, moles and tattoos.